the upside down Christmas tree.
Upside down Christmas trees are, by some accounts, an 11th-century custom.
Small evergreens were hung upside down from rafters
because the triangular shape was said to symbolize the Holy Trinity.

You know what they say: everything old is new again.
But today's upside down Christmas trees are likely more spectacular
than upside down trees of yore.

Don't misunderstand. I love black. It's an accent color in my home.
And since I like having more than one tree,
I've thought about doing a white tree with black and metallic ornaments
one of these days. Maybe.
These trees have given me second thoughts:

Here a black tree is paired with white lights and purple and ivory ornaments.
Next to the glossy black grand piano and the warm almond-colored walls,
it looks very sophisticated, if a bit restrained.
It seems to say, "Joy to the world--but not too much.
Remember yourself, don't get too excited":www.inspirationsforhome.blogspot.com

And here's one from Modern Homes Interior Design,

by way of the web site "Freak Chic,"
that is so understated it would surely disappoint anyone
who loves the razzle-dazzle, glitter and gleam of Christmas: